Bye Box Subscription Service

2019

How Does it Work?

It turns the traditional subscription box model on it’s head, by helping you get rid of things, rather than accumulate more, starting with mindfulness.

Research

Early research into subscription services and how they might support personal wellness.

I found most subscription services claiming to be geared towards personal wellness and mental health were selling products. Their solution to the need for convenient wellness assistance was to send a box full of stuff. What happens to all the unused products every month? Does the added clutter contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety?

I decided to explore a subscription service solution that doesn’t involve getting more, but rather having less, and how minimalism might contribute to better mental health.

Research into minimalism, mindfulness, and their influence on mental wellness.

Sketching

Idea exploration from very rough thoughts, to more detailed anatomy sketches. I explored ideas relating to letting go of material belongings, and releasing emotional attachment, as well as ways to have less stuff in general, and how to make the process less overwhelming.

Experiential Learning

I visited a thrift store, and a Buddhist gathering, to gain a better understanding of the donation process, and mindfulness.

Mapping

I began with an ecosystem map, to understand the big picture of the service and all the stakeholders involved. I also explored the service through journey mapping, and creating a service blueprint.

For the scope of this assignment, I focused on the touchpoints outlined above.

The three touchpoints I focused on for this project.

Three storyboards to illustrate the service from the user’s perspective, the service perspective before the first box is delivered, and the service side after the full box is received back.

Prototyping and User Testing

I created prototypes and conducted testing to gain insight on the form of the box, the instructions for the user, and the specific language used throughout the service.

I also tested using body storming and roleplaying to learn about the user and service flows.

Material Design

Instructions

Along with the instructions, I designed a meditation card and a reflection card that are included in the package the user receives. The meditation happens before the user begins the process of clearing, and the reflection happens when they are done with their monthly box. They can keep the reflection, or put it in the box and send it away with their things.

Also included for the user is a simplified ecosystem map, so they can feel a part of this service system, rather than just a consumer.